US officials discuss security and economic ties at AMCHAM luncheon

U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Michelle Park Steel and General Xavier Brunson, Commander of the ROK-US Combined Forces Command, participated in a special luncheon hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) on October 21. The event focused on strengthening the ROK-US alliance through enhanced security and economic partnerships.

During the discussions, officials addressed the evolving security landscape on the Korean Peninsula. General Brunson highlighted the growing risks posed by North Korea’s advancing missile capabilities and the deepening defense cooperation between North Korea and Russia. While reaffirming that the fundamental requirements for the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) remain unchanged, U.S. officials emphasized the need to prepare for rapidly evolving regional threats.

On the economic front, Ambassador Steel discussed the intersection of national security and economic prosperity. She advocated for a fair competitive environment for U.S. companies in South Korea, specifically noting challenges related to non-tariff barriers and regulatory hurdles in the digital sector, such as investigations and fines.